Ken, I bought a Ridgid vac a few years ago after (I think) Consumer Reports rated it a Best Buy. I've been very happy with it. It has large wheels that can roll over a cord, doesn't tip, the hose doesn't pull out... all those simple things that caused me much frustration with my older Craftsman.
The other thing that always pi**ed me off was the stiff hose (insert joke here) that came with both of them. I bought an upgraded hose that flexes much easier, is heavier duty, and is longer than the original.
I'm no help with the circ saw; I don't use them much. I've got an old SkilSaw and a couple of battery-operated Ryobis that came with different tool kits. The Ryobi's are handy for a quick, low-demand cut only.... I would go with a corded saw for my first one. (Saves the cost of batteries, too).
